Question

(b) which sequence best represents the typical stages through which information passes in memory?

sensory memory \\(\
ightarrow\\) short-term (working) memory \\(\
ightarrow\\) long-term memory.
encoding \\(\
ightarrow\\) storage \\(\
ightarrow\\) retrieval.
short-term memory \\(\
ightarrow\\) sensory memory \\(\
ightarrow\\) long-term memory.
long-term memory \\(\
ightarrow\\) short-term memory \\(\
ightarrow\\) sensory memory.

Explanation:

Analyze the question prompt

The question asks for the sequence representing the typical stages through which information passes in memory. This refers to the structural stages of memory storage rather than the cognitive processes of memory (encoding, storage, and retrieval).

Evaluate the Atkinson-Shiffrin model

According to the classic Atkinson-Shiffrin three-stage information-processing model, environmental stimuli first enter sensory memory. If attended to, the information moves into short-term (working) memory. With rehearsal, it is transferred into long-term memory for permanent storage.

Compare the given options

• **Sensory memory \(

ightarrow\) short-term (working) memory \(
ightarrow\) long-term memory**: This correctly outlines the sequential structural stages of the Atkinson-Shiffrin model.

• **Encoding \(

ightarrow\) storage \(
ightarrow\) retrieval**: These are the three core processes of memory, not the structural stages/stores through which information physically passes.

• **Short-term memory \(

ightarrow\) sensory memory \(
ightarrow\) long-term memory**: This is incorrect because sensory memory precedes short-term memory.

• **Long-term memory \(

ightarrow\) short-term memory \(
ightarrow\) sensory memory**: This reverses the actual flow of incoming information.

Answer:

• **Sensory memory \(

ightarrow\) short-term (working) memory \(
ightarrow\) long-term memory. (Correct answer)**

• Encoding \(

ightarrow\) storage \(
ightarrow\) retrieval.

• Short-term memory \(

ightarrow\) sensory memory \(
ightarrow\) long-term memory.

• Long-term memory \(

ightarrow\) short-term memory \(
ightarrow\) sensory memory.